How to Order Steel Wire Rope – A Detailed Guide

How to Order Steel Wire Rope – A Detailed Guide

Ordering steel wire rope requires careful consideration of specifications, standards, and supplier reliability to ensure you get the right product for your application. Below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Define Your Wire Rope Specifications

A. Wire Rope Construction & Type

The construction determines flexibility, strength, and rotation resistance. Common types include:

• 6x19 or 6x36 IWRC – General lifting, cranes, and hoisting.

• 35x7 Non-Rotating – Tower cranes, crawler crane, rotary drilling rig, offshore applications.

• 8xK26WS-IWRC or 6xK36WS-IWRC – High-strength luffing and hoist ropes.

B. Diameter

• Measured in millimeters (mm) or inches.

• Tolerance levels should comply with industry standards (EN 12385, GB/T, ASTM, etc.).

C. Breaking Load & Strength

• Select the appropriate Minimum Breaking Load (MBL).

• Ensure it meets your safety factor requirements for lifting or pulling applications.

D. Core Type

• IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) – Steel core for higher strength and durability.

• FC (Fiber Core) – More flexible but lower strength, used in specific applications.

• PP Core (Polypropylene Core) – For corrosion resistance and offshore applications.

E. Surface Finish & Coating

• Galvanized (Zinc-coated) – Provides corrosion resistance, ideal for marine or outdoor use.

• Ungalvanized (Black) – Common for general lifting and construction.

• Plastic Coated (EPIWRC) – Enhances durability and reduces internal wear.

• Stainless Steel – High corrosion resistance for marine, food, and chemical industries.

F. Lubrication

• Dry (Unlubricated) – Used for clean environments like food processing.

• Lightly Lubricated – Reduces friction and corrosion for moderate applications.

• Heavily Lubricated – Ideal for harsh environments like mining and offshore use.

2. Choose a Reliable Supplier

A. Key Considerations When Selecting a Supplier

• Check for certifications (ISO 9001, ABS, DNV-GL, Lloyd’s Register, API).

• Ensure they meet industry standards (EN, ASTM, GB/T, JIS, etc.).

• Request past project references or client testimonials.

• Verify quality control processes (e.g., tensile strength testing, non-destructive testing).

B. Ask for Mill Certificates & Test Reports

Before ordering, request:

• Material composition analysis.

• Breaking strength test reports.

• Dimensional tolerance certificates.

3. Specify Quantity & Packaging

• Length per reel or coil (e.g., 500m/reel, 1,000m/reel, or custom-cut lengths).

• Packaging options:

  • Wooden reel (export standard).

  • Steel reel (heavy-duty applications).

  • Coil (for shorter lengths).

• Marking & labeling: Ensure clear labels with specifications, production date, and batch number.

4. Confirm Compliance & Standards

Different industries require compliance with specific standards:

• Lifting & Crane Ropes → EN 12385, ISO 2408.

• Offshore & Marine → DNV-GL, ABS, Lloyd’s Register.

• Mining & Excavation → ASTM, GB/T 8918-2006.

• Rotary Drilling Ropes → API Spec 9A.

5. Request a Quotation & Place an Order

A. Information to Provide to Suppliers

To get an accurate quote, include:
✔ Wire rope construction, diameter, and core type.
✔ Breaking strength requirement.
✔ Coating & lubrication preference.
✔ Required certifications & compliance.
✔ Quantity & packaging details.
✔ Destination port & shipping terms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.).

B. Evaluate Supplier Quotes

Compare different suppliers based on:

• Price vs. quality balance.

• Delivery lead time.

• Payment terms (e.g., 30% deposit, balance before shipment).

• After-sales support and warranty policies.

6. Inspection & Delivery Process

A. Quality Inspection Before Shipment

• Conduct third-party inspections (SGS, BV, or factory QC).

• Verify actual breaking load test results.

• Check for visual defects (broken wires, rust, or incorrect construction).

B. Shipment & Delivery

• Confirm packaging integrity to prevent damage during transport.

• Ensure shipping documents include packing list, invoice, and mill certificate.

• Inspect goods upon arrival and report any discrepancies immediately.

Example: How to Request a Quotation (RFQ)

Subject: Inquiry for Steel Wire Rope – 35x7 Non-Rotating

Dear [Supplier’s Name],

We are looking to procure steel wire rope for our crane operations and require the following:

• Construction: 35x7 Non-Rotating

• Diameter: 16mm

• Breaking Strength: Minimum 230 kN

• Core Type: IWRC

• Finish: Galvanized

• Lubrication: Lightly Lubricated

• Quantity: 10,000 meters

• Packaging: Wooden reel, 500m per reel

• Certification: EN 12385, DNV-GL approval

• Delivery Terms: CIF Singapore

Kindly provide your best price, lead time, and mill certificates for reference. Looking forward to your prompt response.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Final Tips for Ordering Steel Wire Rope

✔ Always confirm specifications before ordering to avoid costly mistakes.
✔ Work with trusted suppliers to ensure consistent quality.
✔ Perform quality checks before shipment and upon delivery.
✔ Consider bulk orders for better pricing.

Would you like help finding a supplier or drafting an RFQ for your specific needs?